Easy Ways to Plan a Camping and Fishing Staycation

Sometimes the best family outdoor memories can be made within just a few miles from home. There are plenty of ways you can plan a camping and fishing staycation without having to travel far. You can use this list of tips and resources to find campgrounds with fishing that are a short drive from where you live.

• Check the state park website for the state where you live. You are likely to find at least one or two state parks within a short driving distance from home. For example, the Florida State Parks website has a list of parks that offer camping and fishing. Most state parks have an "experiences and amenities" page that provides information on fishing access and campgrounds. Keep in mind that some state parks may offer limited camping availability for guests at this time, so call to confirm hours and availability with each individual state park before you go.
• Do a search for the " best fishing campgrounds near me" or "fishing campgrounds near me" using Google. You might be surprised how many campgrounds with fishing there are within a close radius to you. This might include public and private cabin & RV campsites, local farms with lakes, or nature preserves.
• Look for national parks near you that include fishing and camping experiences. You can find a park by state using the "Find a Park" feature on the National Park Service website. For example, in Florida, places such as Everglades National Park and Biscayne National Park offer fishing and camping. Again, you will want to confirm camping availability, seasonal open/close dates, and make reservations if necessary.
• Make sure you purchase your state fishing license and check the fishing regulations before you plan your fishing and camping staycation. Buying your license and doing the research on fishing regulations in advance will give you more time to be present and enjoy the experience with your family. If you are thinking of bringing along a few camping fish recipes, it's important that you know the seasons, bag limits, and regulations associated with each fish species you plan to catch and cook.
• Ask friends, family, or neighbors about local fish campgrounds they may have visited in your area. Sometimes the best way to find out where to fish and camp is to get advice from an experienced angler or camper you know.

By checking these resources, you can find the best places to take a family camping and fishing staycation. After all, there's no better place to relax and decompress than in the great outdoors.